The lone northern white rhino who is guarded from poachers 24 hours a day, has, quite fairly, received some attention now that he is the only remaining male of his kind. And Mexico is now taking groundbreaking steps to help the vaquita.

But action is also needed before situations become so dire.

This Earth Day, it's time for us to take a step back and evaluate how our daily actions affect all animals.

One of the easiest ways to help is to vote with your wallet. Avoid supporting industries that harm animals. You can pledge to go Ivory Free, skip "entertainment" venues (like SeaWorld and some circuses) that hold wild animals captive, avoid clothing that supports the painful trapping and fur industry and learn where your food comes from.

Speak up when you see something wrong. Report wildlife crime using WildLeaks, and animal cruelty to local authorities.